Skoda has decided to launch a series of teaser photos revealing the new compact crossover Karoq. It is a sad moment to see the Yeti go, but we must give a shout out to the Czech carmaker because they really want to differentiate the new model from its bigger brother, the Kodiaq. Let us now see into greater details what exactly the 2018 Skoda Karoq brings to the table.
2018 Karoq Design
What we know so far is that the upper headlights of this vehicle are wider than the units on the Kodiaq, while the new smaller model will also come with the redesigned lower headlights. Around the back, we can clearly see that the LED taillights feature a new design and that they have been extended only onto to the upper area of the electric trunk lid.
The old boxy shape of the Yeti is gone, and the new SUV will feature more rounded design, which has been inspired by its bigger brother. Although these changes are subtle, we can already predict that the 2018 Skoda Karoq is going to be a fierce rival in this hugely competitive segment.
The Karoq will have the same chassis that underpins both Tiguan and SEAT Ateca, and because of that, these cars will have a similar appearance. Expect a number of chunky black plastic trim pieces which are going to be taken from the VW and SEAT.
2018 Skoda Karoq Interior
The cabin of the new SUV is expected to be spacious, comfortable and stylish. Based on Skoda’s previous works, the materials are going to be pleasant, but not as plush as those in the rivalry Volkswagen Tiguan. Digital instruments and big touchscreen infotainment system are nearly certain to come.
A smart and simple dashboard with glossy black trim will be visible inside, whereas an infotainment display will have 6.5 inches diagonal, but this one is only available for the entry-level model. The other trims will feature a 9.2-inch infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Features such as adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and traffic sign recognition should help the driver out. In the teaser photo, we can notice the LED ambient lighting, which will come in 10 different colors.
Cargo Space
The 2018 model brings the 521-liter trunk when the rear seats are upright, but when you fold them flat, you can get 1,630 liters of cargo. The rear bench can also be removed from the car entirely, and you will end up with 1,810 liters of capacity – it will feel like driving a van! At the back, we have three individual seats, and each of these can slide or fold separately, so you can customize your space in the vehicle as you like.
Engines and Driving
Under the hood, Skoda will offer three diesel and two petrol units alongside the brand-new 1.5-liter petrol engine that also powers the refreshed VW Golf. What is great about this powerplant is that it comes with fuel-saving cylinder deactivation technology which automatically switches off two cylinders, when that is possible. This unit will be connected to a manual gearbox, which will be offered as standard and optional DSG automatic transmission.
The models with a 2.0-liter diesel unit, which will deliver 187 horsepower will come only with an automatic gearbox that will send power to all four wheels. The vehicle will be stable because of the 2,638 mm long wheelbase whereas if you opt for the optional AWD configuration, expect extra grip especially during poor weather and driving conditions.
Pricing and Release Date of new Skoda Karoq 2018
The 2018 Skoda Karoq will be introduced on May 18, 2017, and you will be able to find it at the dealerships later in 2017. The pricing details have not been confirmed yet, but the base trim will probably start from around £17,000.
